Asia Cup 2023 Deadlock Continues as PCB Sends SOS to ICC
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is sending an urgent request to the International Cricket Council (ICC) in the midst of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 deadlock. PCB is hoping that the ICC will step in and compel the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to accept the hybrid model. Pakistan has threatened to boycott the tournament if the hybrid model is not approved, but BCCI is convinced that Pakistan will still take part.
ICC Leadership Visits Pakistan
Last week, the ICC’s top brass, including President Greg Barclay and CEO Geoff Allardice, made a visit to Pakistan. During the trip, PCB Chairman Najam Sethi had a comprehensive discussion with them about the Asia Cup dispute.
ICC’s Concerns Over India-Pakistan Ties
The ICC is understandably concerned about the tense relationship between India and Pakistan, as both countries are slated to host two ICC events in 2023 and 2025 respectively. Should Pakistan decide to withdraw from the Asia Cup 2023, it would be a major setback for the World Cup 2023 as well. Pakistan could even opt out of playing in India.
Conclusion
The PCB is hoping that the ICC will intervene in the Asia Cup 2023 deadlock and force the BCCI to accept the hybrid model. If not, Pakistan could pull out of the tournament, which would have serious repercussions for the World Cup 2023. It remains to be seen how the ICC will handle the situation.